Refunds and Direct Deposit

A refund occurs when your financial aid or payments exceed the total charges on your student account.

Below you will find details on when refunds are issued, how to receive yours, what to expect and answers to common questions about direct deposit.

Important Information

  • Refunds cannot be issued before financial aid is disbursed
  • Your address must be up to date to avoid delays
  • Changes to your schedule may affect your refund amount
  • Some adjustments may be held for up to 14 days to ensure funds have cleared

How & When You Receive Your Refund

Refunds are typically issued about two weeks after the add/drop period ends, after your financial aid has been fully processed and applied and once any account adjustments are finalized.

Your refund may be delayed if:

  • You add or drop courses
  • Your financial aid changes
  • Payments are still being processed

Receive via Direct Deposit (Recommended)

Direct deposit is the fastest and most secure way to receive your refund.

  • Funds are deposited directly into your bank account
  • No risk of lost or delayed mail
  • You can access your money as soon as it is deposited

Enroll in direct deposit through NEST under Student Accounts.

Receive via Paper Check

If you are not enrolled in direct deposit:

  • A check will be mailed to the address on file
  • Delivery times may vary
  • Checks cannot be picked up in person

Direct Deposit FAQs

Direct deposit, also known as Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT), sends your refund directly to your checking or savings account.

No. Direct deposit is a free service available to all students.

Log into NEST and complete the direct deposit form under Student Accounts.

Your account number and routing number are available on your checks or through your bank's website or app.

Funds are available as soon as they are deposited into your account.

Yes. You can update or remove your direct deposit information at any time through NEST.

Did You Receive a Refund after Your Loans Disbursed?

If you have received a refund after all your loans have been disbursed the following options are available:

  • You may keep the refund and use for winter or summer classes and/or educational expenses.
  • You can request for a reduction of their loan in the current semester, cash the check and then pay student accounts the balance owed from the loan reduction (Recommended).
  • You can request a reduction of the loan for the upcoming semester and use the refund to pay the balance for the upcoming semester.
  • You can also use the money to pay the lender back directly. If you choose this option, make sure you will not need the excess later as we may not be able to increase your cost of attendance to allow for an increase in the loan. (Consult a loan counselor to ensure this is the best option)
Learn More about Loans

Need Help?

If you have questions about your refund or direct deposit, contact Red Hawk Central.